Brad Guzan performed admirably, but it was not enough as Manchester City did just enough to defeat Aston Villa.

The American ‘keeper went the distance, while Eric Lichaj dressed but did not feature for the Villains.

City's only goal of the game came in first half stoppage time after Villa defender Ciaran Clark was dispossessed of the ball by Edin Dzeko who sent a ball to Carlos Tevez. The Argentinean striker then made a cutback inside the box and found the back of the net.

Villa was unable to equalize, though Guzan did his best to keep them in the game with impressive saves on Pablo Zabaleta and Jack Rodwell.

City remains 12 points from first place Manchester United and will need to maximize their points for the rest of the season to have a chance at catching their cross town rivals.

The Villans find themselves in the relegation zone, though a win next weekend against Reading could boost them into temporary safety.